Major Tom: the Nasa Investigation

Multiple lapses by Ground Control, compounded by astronaut error, led to the stranding in space of U.S.A.F. Major Thomas D. Ogletree (MAJOR TOM). Established procedures were not followed; flawed decision-making was rampant and systemic.

Below are excerpts from the official CAPCOM transcript, with comments by the investigators.

The panel found the command to swallow nutritional supplements just moments before liftoff to be reckless and foolhardy.

In addition, the panel determined that T minus ten seconds was far too late in the launch sequence for Major Tom to “put [his] helmet on.” Consequently, his CO2 purge valve went unchecked, and he did not have time to rub his visor with anti-fog compound.

2. GROUND CONTROL: Commencing countdown, engines on.

The panel found it bizarre to be “commencing countdown” near what is obviously the end of the countdown. In fact, a background voice can be heard saying “. . . six . . .” as the countdown is “commencing.”

Moreover, activating engine thrust requires a complex multi-step protocol, and cannot be accomplished merely by saying, “Engines on.” One investigator compared this to a small child ordering, “Car go fast!”

3. GROUND CONTROL: Check ignition and may God’s love be with you.

At liftoff, capsule video clearly shows Major Tom, his mouth stuffed with protein pills, looking flummoxed. He paws at the control console (trying to check ignition?), then sees his helmet lying on the floor, still in its protective bag (!). The Major scrambles frantically, almost comically, to screw on the helmet as powerful g-forces buffet his body.

4. GROUND CONTROL: This is Ground Control to Major Tom. You’ve really made the grade!

This empty praise, just forty-six seconds into the flight, is perhaps intended to divert attention from the helmet fiasco. What is indisputable is that coolant is spraying wildly from the Major’s helmet seal.

4. If communication is interrupted, we suggest the standard “Do you copy? Over.” Repeatedly pleading “Can you hear me, Major Tom?” better suits a needy, neurotic lover than the world’s foremost space program.

5. Finally, a rescue mission should be launched at the earliest convenience to return Major Tom to Earth. The Major’s frequent call-ins to morning radio programs may be entertaining, but his erratic, hobo-like opinions and dirty language could alarm budding astronauts. ♦